Ever hosted a dinner party and realized halfway through that your plates didn’t match? Yeah, I’ve been there too. Crockery might seem like a simple concept, but choosing the right pieces can make or break your dining experience.
So, what is crockery exactly? In simple terms, it’s the dishes—plates, bowls, cups, and saucers—we use for serving and eating food. But there’s more to it than just functionality. The right crockery can elevate your meals, impress guests, and even last a lifetime if you pick quality materials.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about crockery, from the different types available to how to choose the perfect set for your needs.
Types of Crockery
1. Plates
When I first moved into my own place, I thought all plates were basically the same. Boy, was I wrong! After hosting a disastrous dinner where my “all-purpose” plates were too small for proper portions, I learned that plate sizes and styles actually serve different functions.
- Dinner plates (10-12 inches) – Your main meal workhorses
- Side plates (7-9 inches) – Perfect for bread or appetizers
- Dessert plates (6-8 inches) – Often with decorative designs
- Soup plates (9 inches with 2-inch sides) – Ideal for saucy dishes
Lesson learned: Thin porcelain plates may look elegant but chip easily. Now I opt for slightly heavier plates that withstand daily use.
2. Bowls
Bowls might seem straightforward, but there’s actually quite a variety:
- Cereal/soup bowls (6×3 inches) – Everyday essentials
- Rice/noodle bowls (4-5 inches deep) – Often come with lids
- Ramekins (3-4 inches) – Perfect for dips or single servings
Pro tip: Nesting bowls save space if you’re short on storage.
3. Cups & Saucers
As a coffee lover, I’ve learned the right vessel enhances the experience:
- Tea cups (6-8 oz) – Delicate handles for proper tea sipping
- Coffee mugs (8-16 oz) – Thicker walls retain heat better
- Espresso cups (2-3 oz) – Concentrate the aroma
Fun fact: Oversized teacups make terrible coffee mugs – the thin walls let drinks cool too fast!
4. Serving Dishes
Proper serving pieces elevate any meal:
- Platters (12-16 inches) – For meats or large salads
- Gravy boats – Mess-free sauce serving
- Tureens – Keep soups hot with their lids
Common Crockery Materials
1. Porcelain
✔ Elegant and chip-resistant
✖ Can be heavy and expensive
2. Stoneware
✔ Durable and oven-safe
✖ Thick and heavy
3. Bone China
✔ Lightweight and premium
✖ Fragile and costly
4. Earthenware
✔ Affordable traditional look
✖ Porous (stains easily)
5. Melamine
✔ Unbreakable for outdoor use
✖ Can look cheap
True story: My shattered bone china teacup scared the dog so badly he hid for hours! Now I save it for special occasions.
Choosing the Right Crockery
- Match to your lifestyle:
- Families → Durable stoneware
- Entertainers → Matching porcelain
- Minimalists → Neutral basics
- Sets vs. mix-and-match:
- Full sets = Uniform but expensive
- Mixing = Personality but needs planning
- Check practical features:
- Microwave/dishwasher safe?
- Stackable for storage?
Caring for Your Crockery
✔ Handwash delicate pieces
✔ Avoid sudden temperature changes
✔ Use plate separators when stacking
Conclusion
Crockery is more than just dishes—it’s an essential part of dining and entertaining. Whether you’re a casual eater or frequent host, the right tableware makes all the difference.
Start with versatile basics and build your collection over time. And if something breaks? Consider it an opportunity to refresh your set!